Title: The Squirrels Who Squabbled
Author: Rachel Bright
Illustrator: Jim Field
The Story:
Spontaneous Cyril has his sights on the last nuts of the season but so does Plan-Ahead Bruce. They are both so preoccupied in their attempt to beat the other neither notices when the nuts are stolen from them. When Cyril and Bruce find themselves in real trouble can they finally learn to work together?
Favourite Spread:
I couldn’t do it. Rachel’s gripping story and Jim’s spectacular illustrations were too good to pick just one spread. My first choice is a spread early on in the story where we really see Cyril and Bruce’s competitive personalities coming through as they race each other. Jim’s multiple scenes make you feel as though you are racing alongside them.
But for me, the story jumped to a whole new level when the two little squirrels find themselves in real danger. Jim makes you turn the book on its side as Cyril and Bruce literally fall over the edge of a waterfall.
The Verdict:
An outstanding rhyming story that you will want to read over and over again. Jim’s illustrations perfectly compliment Rachel’s lively rhythmic prose. This is a fun-packed page-turning adventure of two young squirrels that learn friendship is the most important thing of all.
Publisher: Orchard Books
Publication date: 8 February 2018
ISBN: 978 1408340479
Picture Book Perfect 